Examine changes introduced to reform or restructure the U.S. health care delivery system. In a 1,000-1,250 word paper, discuss action taken for reform and restructuring and the role of the nurse within this changing environment.

Nursing practice and health care models

Introduction. The U.S. Healthcare Delivery System has changed significantly over the last few decades. The healthcare system has been reformed and restructured to meet the challenge of increasing healthcare costs and demand, as well as the need for improved healthcare outcomes and quality. In this ever-changing environment, the role of nurses has changed, as they play an increasing role in healthcare management and policy, patient care, and even health.

Changes made for restructuring and reform: Some major changes were introduced to the U.S. health care delivery system for restructuring and reform.

1. Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act: This law, which was signed in 2010, brought about several reforms aimed at improving access to health services, controlling costs, and improving quality and outcomes. The ACA introduced several changes, including the creation of health insurance exchanges and Medicaid expansion.
2. EHRs (Electronic Health Records): Adoption of EHRs is a significant initiative to improve the efficiency and quality of healthcare. The EHR enables better coordination of healthcare, access to real-time patient data, and integration of clinical support tools.
3. Accountable Care Organizations – ACOs: ACOs comprise networks of health care providers and hospitals that coordinate the treatment for a specific patient population. ACOs were designed to improve collaboration and reduce healthcare costs.
4. Patient-centered Medical Homes (PCMHs). PCMHs consist of primary care practices which are geared towards providing comprehensive and coordinated care that is patient-centered. PCMHs aim at improving patient outcomes, increasing patient satisfaction and reducing healthcare costs.

Role and responsibilities of the nursing profession in a changing environment. The changing health care environment is characterized by a complex, multifaceted role for the nurses. The role of nurses is critical in the patient’s care, health management and policy. Some of the many ways nurses have contributed to the healthcare industry’s evolution include:

1. Patient Care: Nurses provide direct care in many settings. The role of nurses is crucial in managing chronic diseases, coordinating health care and promoting wellness.
2. Nursing is also involved with healthcare management. This includes the development and implementation of health care delivery models, management of resources and evaluation of outcomes.
3. Nurses increasingly participate in healthcare policy and advocate for improved access to, and quality of, care. Nursing is also involved with the implementation of health policies. This includes the creation of protocols and guidelines.

Conclusion. The U.S. health care delivery system has changed significantly over the last decade. There have been reforms and restructuring efforts to deal with the issues of increasing healthcare costs, increased demand for healthcare and improving healthcare quality. This changing environment is a place where the role of the nurses becomes increasingly critical. They play an important role in health management, patient care and healthcare policy. Nurses will continue to play an important role as the healthcare system evolves.